The Picture Book Pitch

I must admit, I was very hesitant to purchase this session - I'm wary of anything where, as an aspiring author, I pay the publisher. However, this was worth both the time and money. Rochelle very clearly set out general industry expectations and challenges and gave specific information for what she values when looking through submissions for Wombat. For me, the most useful part was the Q & A at the end of the session. Rochelle answered every question honestly, often stopping to clarify the question to make sure that everyone received the information that they needed. I will be signing up to the picture book to early reader session as well.

Publisher Rochelle Stephens was generous in sharing creative tips with creatives in this jam-packed Picture Book Pitch session. Insightful, supportive and affordable, helping aspiring authors/illustrators put their best foot forward when the Wombat Books picture book submission portal opens in January. Thank you, Rochelle!

I found this Zoom presentation to be incredibly useful, giving me an insight into what Wombat Books, and other publishers, look for when they review pitches and submissions for picture books. Thank you!

I've attended a few pitch info sessions with a variety of publishers and I absolutely loved Rochelle's session. Firstly, Rochelle came across as passionate, genuine and honest in her feedback about the picture book publishing industry. She was clear in her expectations, gave some great tips, and was happy to answer our questions. I uhmmed and ahhed about booking into this session, but I'm so glad that I did.

Lots of useful information that I can use going forward. It was worth the small fee.

This session was brilliant! Not only did Rochelle go through what makes a great picture book, she also explained how to make a manuscript stand out in a very competitive slush pile. The information presented was helpful insight into what publishers are looking for in both a manuscript, and a cover letter. I am so glad I attended this session because the key takeaway was to consider if a manuscript is really a picture book, because it might be better suited to an early reader. I can’t wait for that PD session!

Got a lot of useful information, very practical, very honest. Has even made me consider Early Readers.

Thank you. Such an informative, welcoming session that taught me a lot about how best to pitch your PB, grow your writing career and be an ally for your fellow writing peers and local publishers. Very appreciative and highly recommend.

This on line presentation by Rochelle Stephens was a very informative and worthwhile way to gain industry knowledge. It also provided me with the necessary tools to perfect my submission to Wombat Books when they open.